Image Splitting Optical Device for Videoendoscopic Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current videoendoscopic probes face challenges in integrating stereo devices for accurate measurement due to miniaturization difficulties, which restrict the optical measuring field and utilization of the CCD sensor's sensitive surface, especially when requiring interchangeable heads with varying view angles and optical paths.
Innovation Solution
An image splitting optical device with two identical convergent lens sections and an opaque central element, forming a composite image from two angles, integrated into a small diameter videoendoscopic probe, allowing for a significant measuring field and efficient use of the CCD sensor's surface, and designed for interchangeable heads with optical axial or deviated views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional stereo devices are integrated into videoendoscopic probes for accurate measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and miniaturization difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical device is divided into multiple independent lens sections (first lens section, second lens section, third lens section) that can be separately positioned and adjusted. Each lens section captures images from different angles, allowing the system to achieve stereo measurement capability through segmented optical paths rather than a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can capture images from different angles (axial and deviated views), accommodate interchangeable heads with varying view angles, and provide both measurement and observation capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Measurement precision
If the optical measuring field is expanded to utilize more of the CCD sensor's sensitive surface, then measurement precision is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the angular dimension by positioning lens sections at different angles (axial and deviated views) rather than only expanding the spatial field of view. This allows multiple measurement angles to be captured simultaneously within the same physical aperture, effectively utilizing the CCD sensor's sensitive surface without increasing the overall device diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple lens sections and optical paths are nested within the same compact distal end structure. The interchangeable heads can be inserted into and removed from the distal end part, allowing different optical configurations to share the same physical space. This nesting approach enables expanded measuring capability within a constrained volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable heads with varying view angles are integrated, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end part is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple interchangeable heads with different view angles and optical configurations. The standardized coupling mechanism allows any of these heads to be attached and used with the same base probe structure, providing versatility without requiring separate dedicated systems for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into a base distal end part and separate interchangeable heads. Each head can be independently designed and optimized for specific view angles or measurement requirements, while the base part provides common functionality. This segmentation allows adaptability to different applications without increasing the complexity of the entire system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a broader optical measuring field, utilizes a substantial portion of the CCD sensor's surface, and is integrable into interchangeable heads, enhancing measurement accuracy and flexibility while maintaining a compact size.
Implementation Method 1
an image splitting optical device with two identical convergent lens sections and an opaque central element, forming a composite image from two angles
Data Source
AI summary
Image splitting device for videoendoscope, comprising an image splitting optical component to form on the sensitive surface of a video sensor housed in the distal end part of a videoendoscope a single composite image formed from two images of an observed target, viewed from two different angles; the image splitting optical component comprises two sections of identical convergent lenses, integrated into an opaque central element, maintaining the space between the two sections of lenses, each of the two sections of lenses are at least equal to a half-moon so that it is crossed by the optical axes of the lens.